The South Carolina State Museum proudly announces the successful completion of an accessibility-focused renovation, thanks to a $200,000 capital gift from Aflac and support from the State legislature. The museum’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is now exemplified by all 10 public restrooms being fully compliant with The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Aflac’s generous contribution not only addressed ADA compliance but also funded the creation of two mother’s spaces, designed to provide privacy and comfort for nursing mothers, and a wellness room, offering a quiet space for guests to rest and rejuvenate. This initiative is a significant leap forward in ensuring that the museum is accessible to the more than 1.1 million adults and children living with a disability in South Carolina.
Karen Hall, State Museum Foundation Director, emphasized the importance of equal access, stating, “Every South Carolinian deserves to have equal access to their State Museum and its programs. This renovation project is the first and one of the most important steps in the museum’s Reimagine the Experience project, as we work together with partners like Aflac and our shared community to ensure the museum is fully accessible for our guests.”
Aflac’s contribution marked the inaugural corporate donation to the Reimagine the Experience project, an ambitious endeavor aimed at renewing the museum’s permanent exhibition galleries and educational spaces. The project focuses on incorporating more immersive experiences and expanding accessibility-focused resources to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Bob Ruff, Senior Vice President, Group Voluntary Benefits at Aflac, expressed pride in supporting the museum’s vision, stating, “Aflac has a long history of providing an inclusive environment for our own workforce, so we are very proud to help remove accessibility barriers and offer guests with disabilities the best possible experience at State Museum, a wonderful educational resource in South Carolina.”
Through this collaboration, the South Carolina State Museum not only achieves a milestone in accessibility but also sets the stage for a more inclusive and engaging experience for all visitors, aligning with its commitment to education and community enrichment.
